Validation of a novel real-time PCR assay for detection of HLA-B*15:02 allele for prevention of carbamazepine – Induced Stevens-Johnson syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis in individuals of Asian ancestry

Abstract Objectives Screening for the HLA-B*15:02 allele has been recommended to prevent carbamazepine (CBZ) – induced Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) in individuals with Asian ancestry. We aimed, therefore, to develop and validate a robust and inexpensive method for detection of the HLA-B*15:02 allele. Methods Real-time PCR using TaqMan® probes followed by SYBR® Green was used to detect the HLA-B*15:02 allele prior to treatment with CBZ therapy. Results A total of 121 samples were tested. The assay has a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI: 76.84–100.0%), a specificity of 100% (95% CI: 96.61–100%), a positive predictive value of 100% (95% CI: 76.84–100%) and a negative predictive value of 100.0% (95% CI: 96.61–100.0%), respectively. There was 100% agreement between our results and genotyping using Luminex SSO/SBT/SSP. The lowest limit of detection of the TaqMan® probe is 0.05 ng/μl and the SYBR® Green is 0.5 ng/μl of DNA. The unit cost of using the TaqMan® probe followed by SYBR® Green is only $4.7 USD. Conclusion We developed a novel assay for the detection of the HLA-B*15:02 allele, which is robust, inexpensive and suitable for screening individuals of Asian ancestry in the prevention of CBZ-induced SJS/TEN.